How to prepare for a long car trip
Whether you’re planning a fun road trip or making an essential long distance journey, it pays to be prepared.
There are lots to think about, from planning your route to having first aid supplies on hand.
In this article, we show you how to prepare for a long road trip by car so that your experience is a safe one. Read on for all the long car trip essentials you need to know.
Plan early
The earlier you plan a trip, the more likely your road trip will be a success.
At least two weeks before the trip, draw up your “to do” lists. Jot down anything that could be useful. Your lists can include things like what clothes to pack and checks to make on your car.
Ticking off tasks as you complete them will help you feel in control and confident about your upcoming trip.
Plan your route
To prepare for a long car trip, you need to plan your route. Don’t just rely on GPS, especially if you are going to remote areas. Make sure you have a good old-fashioned map to help you too.
Find out where you can stop for rest, food and bathroom visits. Mark out breaks on your route.
If you’re sharing the driving, draw up a schedule with the other driver or drivers.
Book your accommodation
If you’re planning on staying at hotels or other accommodation such as a campsite, make sure you book them in plenty of time.
There’s nothing worse than leaving your sleeping arrangements to chance and finding everywhere fully booked.
And sleeping in the car is not a comfortable or safe option!
Organise your house before you leave
There are a few things you need to do to make sure your house is safe before you leave for your road trip.
Ensure that any pets will be cared for and leave emergency numbers such as the vets with their carer.
Switch off the gas and water at the mains before you leave. Double-check all doors and windows are locked and your alarm – if you have one – is set.
Have a friend or neighbour come to your house while you are away to check that all is well and give you peace of mind.
Charge up your devices
It’s always good to have fully charged devices before you set off, even if you have a car charger or are taking a portable charger.
It means that in the event of an emergency, you can just reach for your phone without worrying whether it’s charged.
You can also use this time to download any media you may need during the journey and set up in-car devices such as DVD players.
Choose your clothes carefully
Plan your outfit before the day of your car trip. Choose comfortable clothes in breathable fabrics like cotton.
Layers work well on long journeys as you can easily adjust to temperature changes. Suitable clothes include:
- T-shirts
- Sweatpants
- Hoodies
- Cardigans
- Any item of loungewear
- Sports socks
And make sure your shoes are comfy and you can drive in them too!
Pack a first aid kit
The latest statistics from the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Communications tell us that during 2017-18, over 39,000 people had to go to the hospital after a car accident.
No one wants to deal with an emergency on a road trip, but being prepared will help you feel more confident.
This makes packing a first aid kit essential. While you should always call for help in the event of a road accident, first aid kits can be useful to treat minor injuries.
A first aid kit specially designed to keep in the car is a great option. If you have limited space, a compact first aid kit is ideal.
If you have more space – for example, if you drive a 4WD – then a larger first aid kit that you can store easily in your vehicle is a good choice.
And if you are going to a remote area, then a snake bite first aid kit is a good investment.
It’s also worth refreshing your first aid knowledge before your road trip so you can handle emergencies with confidence.
Prepare your car
Make sure regular maintenance checks on your car are up-to-date. These include checking the oil and water levels and making sure your tyres are correctly inflated.
You should also pack a kit to help you if your car breaks down. This can include:
- Hi vis vests
- Hand charged torch
- Battery booster cables
- Multi-function tool
- Reflective warning triangle
- Bungee cord
- Spare tyre
Keeping you safe on the road
Work through our tips and you will be fully prepared for your long car trip.
Let MediBC help you keep safe and confident on the road. Our travel first aid kits are specially designed to store in your car. They contain everything you need to deal with minor emergencies, and you can stock up on refills directly from our website.
You’ll find a travel first aid kit just right for you, so make sure it’s ticked off on your road trip checklist!
Car & 4WD First Aid Kits for Long Trips
Roadside-ready kits for everyday drivers, tradies, heavy vehicles, and 4WD adventurers planning long journeys.
